Cracker-barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Savor the Heartwarming Comfort of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Step into the world of home-style cooking with this authentic Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe, combining perfectly seasoned ground beef with a signature sweet and tangy glaze that makes every bite memorable.

Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or seeking to recreate restaurant-quality comfort food at home, this meatloaf recipe delivers the familiar warmth and satisfaction of the beloved Cracker Barrel experience right in your kitchen.

Perfect for Sunday dinners or when you're craving a taste of traditional American comfort food, this recipe captures the essence of what makes Cracker Barrel meatloaf so special. Ready to transform your dinner table into a destination for delicious, home-style cooking? Let's dive into this foolproof and utterly satisfying recipe.

Master the Art of Cracker Barrel Meatloaf: Your Path to Perfect Comfort Food

This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe goes beyond basic ground beef, incorporating a perfect blend of fresh vegetables, sharp cheddar cheese, and a signature glaze that sets it apart. Furthermore, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish that's sure to become a family favorite.

Here's your guide to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures, complete with expert tips to ensure your meatloaf turns out moist and delicious every time.

Serving Suggestions:

The classic Cracker Barrel meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for an authentic restaurant experience. Additionally, you might consider serving it alongside mac and cheese, sweet corn, or a fresh garden salad. For the ultimate comfort food experience, don't forget the warm, buttery biscuits or cornbread on the side.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cracker Barrel Meatloaf:

1. Temperature Matters: Let your ground beef come to room temperature before mixing to ensure even cooking and better ingredient incorporation.
2. Gentle Mixing: Use your hands to combine ingredients just until incorporated - overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf.
3. Even Distribution: When adding vegetables, ensure they're finely chopped and evenly distributed throughout the mixture for consistent flavor in every bite.
4. Perfect Moisture: The milk and eggs work together to keep your meatloaf moist - don't skip these crucial ingredients.
5. Resting Time: Allow your meatloaf to rest after baking to help it set and retain its juices when slicing.

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 60-70 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Equipment: Loaf pan, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons

Transform your kitchen into a haven of comfort food with this perfectly seasoned and glazed Cracker Barrel-style meatloaf.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds 90% lean ground beef
• ½ white onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• ⅓ cup milk
• ½ cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Signature Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard

Directions:

1. Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan for easy removal.
2. Create the Base Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly combine the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, beaten eggs, milk, and shredded Cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
3. Mix the Meat: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef with chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Add the vegetable and egg mixture, then mix everything together using your hands until just combined.
4. Shape and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan, shaping it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
5. Prepare the Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl until the sugar begins to dissolve.
6. Add the Finishing Touch: After the initial 30 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top.
7. Complete the Cooking: Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps it maintain its shape and ensures easier serving.

Ready to Relish!

Each slice of this homemade Cracker Barrel meatloaf delivers the perfect combination of seasoned meat, melted cheese, and that irresistible sweet and tangy glaze. Moreover, it's a dish that brings people together, creating moments of joy around the dinner table.

Storage Solutions:

Store any leftover Cracker Barrel meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Furthermore, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

For best results, slice the meatloaf before freezing to make reheating individual portions easier. Additionally, consider making a double batch - one for dinner and one for the freezer - to have this comfort food ready whenever the craving strikes.

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